The Montie Family Update

2011 Re-Cap

2011-12-26T17:02:00.000-08:00

Let's start oldest to youngest shall we:

Cherine:

1. Turned the big 3-0 this year 2. With the nonprofit she co-founded had a successful service trip to Guatemala in May and helped bless many lives. Thanks to the awesome support of family, friends, and strangers :) 3. Was called to be the President in the Young Women's program at our church (quite daunting) 4. Finished up a successful first year of teaching preschool and started her second year this Fall 5. Ran her first half marathon with a time of 2:00:30 and is looking for another race to better her time 6. Basically life kept her on her toes with three cool cats, Michael, Abigail, and Sam! We love our mama!

Big Mike:

1. He turned 29 this year (youngling) 2. Finished up 2nd year med school (those horrible Boards and all) 3. Full fledged into 3rd year, which he has really enjoyed (scheduled for step two Boards boo) 4. He is an awesome teacher at church 5. Loves to workout when he finds time (sometimes that is in the middle of the night) 6. Loves wrestling with the kids and the kids LOVE their dad. Dad's are so neat!

Michael:

1. Yep, he is 6!! 2. He is a in a dual language Kindergarten and is learning a lot of Spanish (he has a great accent) 3. This was his 4th season playing soccer and third playing with the Dark Knights! (He scored 6 goals in one game) 4. He loves playing the Wii and beat Pirates Lego Game 5. He loves building Lego's and over Christmas helped build a 7,000 piece Lego with his Dad 6. He loves watching football (especially the Lions) 7. He has such a fun personality and is extremely responsible! Mike Mike is such a cool kid. He is serious but than he knows how to let his hair down. He is a teaser with the best and loves to take care of his siblings!!

Abigail Eva:

1. She is 3 (so ready to turn 4) 2. She is sick of being in Nursery at church and excited to be in Primary (next week) 3. She loves to dance 4. She is very sharp (nothing gets past her and she will call you out on things) 5. She has "Tangled" hair. Her hair is so long (though pretty, kind of a pain to brush) 6. For her next birthday she is planning a Ninja Ballerina party (that explains her personality) 7. She has a good healthy dose of tom-boy and girly girl. We love our Abi-girl. She is super sweet mixed with a lot of sass and pretty big brown eyes. She is such a good balance to our family.

Sam (Man)

1. He is 1.57898080878 (looks like he is older) 2. He is huge and wild 3. He has successfully given mom a few fat lips ( did I mention he is wild) 4. He has such a huge smile and that dimple gets us every time! 5. He has a lot of curly hair on that head 6. He started to walk at the beginning of the year, than it went to running quickly after, to break dancing ( or something close to it) 7. He says a few words 8. He loves to fight his big brother (he is really tough, that is where fat lips come into play). Sam is grrrreat! What can we say. He is the little brother who was never really little :)

The Montie Family had a great 2011. We are healthy and happy. Though we do not live near family and we are surrounded by the most amazing friend we count as family. Thank you to them for making 2011 rad-tastic! 2012 COME WHAT MAY (and we hope we can handle it ;)

XOXO

Reflections and Ramblings

2011-10-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

My spirits have been blunted by many family issues from tragedy to disappointment. I carry on and deal but caught in a quiet moment tears become frequent visitors. I am no stranger to these emotions, but every time they arise I still struggle a bit to pull through. Some people know what I am talking about an others no. I am not at the liberty to say but lets just say the refiners fire seems to be my hang out.

My sweet husband reminds me of a scripture passage. Towards the end of Jacobs life he talks about being conquerors of their enemies but ends his writings with "and also our lives passed away like as were unto us a dream, as we being a lonesome people...wherefore we did mourn out our days"...

He ends "Brethren adieu".

I feel for Jacob and his people and understand just a bit more what life may had been like. He came off optimistic spite the hardships. In our scars of life I have great hope too. I have hope in a perfect plan of happiness, and in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Life gets hard but I know there will be a sweet reward. Not by fame, money, or anything like that but the sweet words. "Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord"....

So as life kicks me down and sadness enters my heart. I can't help but reminded of the beauties all around and how special this life is. It is so great to be on this earth. I am thankful to be here with such an inspiring companion. One who displays the most quiet dignity, and one who's love of God is beyond words. He makes my life sweet. He makes me a better mom and He makes me a better disciple of Christ. I am thankful for my eternal companion! I don't think I could do this life without him! ;)

Our Family

2011-09-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

So we have had a lot of happenings since I updated last. I guess I will go through everyone in our family to make sure I cover most if not all the happs.

Daddy Mike: He is on his fourth rotation which happens to be peds. He loves doing clinical's and learning. Though he is sure of his career path (thankfully) he enjoys seeing all aspects of medicine. Life feels pretty normal for the most part. I suppose OB (his next rotation), and surgery (he does next semester) will be a little intense. For now we are enjoying having him home and early sometimes.

Me: I started preschool and have TEN kids. Yep, that is right. Ten lovely kids. They are really fun and make my weeks fly. I have about half old and half new and they all blend well together.
I am busy trying to get some fundraising kicked off for our up and coming service trip to Guatemala. That has me pretty busy and thinking a lot on how to make things work. I love that I type and speak Spanish often. I really do love what I do. Humanitarian work aside from motherhood as been the most fulfilling job ever!
I received the new daunting calling of Young Women's President for our church. What that is for those who don't know, Young Women's (YW's) is a program of girls ages 12-18. The program includes a weekly youth group, and weekly Sunday classes. I am the head of this organization with a great group of counselors who support and really help the program run smoothly. These "callings" are given through revelation by our church congregational bishop who presides over everything. Any who it is a privilege and MORE WORK than I ever knew in a calling and I am loving it!!!

Michael, started kindergarten and is rocking the Spanish scene. He picks it up so well and has quit a big Spanish Vocab. He is reading more, and writes well. I am really proud of him. He has also started playing soccer again with the Dark Knights. This is his 4th season playing and third with the Dark Knights. He has done exceptional. He really does have mature field vision and some of the fanciest foot work for his age. He loves it and that is all that really matters.

Abigail, aside from her booty long hair she is growing like a weed. She is starting to write her letters better. She counts in English and Spanish well. She has a vocabulary equivalent to a teenager and it freaks me out a bit. I think her terrible threes are ending. She is really turning into such a friendly and sweet chatter box. When she grows up she wants to be a cheerleader. Not sure why I have no idea where that came from. She likes to dress up and loves all her little girl friends.

Sam, Oh my Sam Man. What can I say. He says a few words, and has the most animated facial expressions. He says Mama at least 400 times a day (which is kind of annoying). He has really long hair disguised by his sweet curls. He is in 3T tops and 2T bottoms. He loves roaming the backyard and will for hours. He climbs up the swing set and just plays. He doesn't like to roam alone, but if Bronco is with him he is content. He will start nursery in 3 weeks and COUNTING.

Bronco, Is our Shih Tzu dog that adopted us. Long story but he has been in a family a few month and he fits right in. Bronco loves everyone especially me. I am always followed by the dog and Sam everywhere I go. He has to lay on my side of the bed, stand outside the bathroom and just be by me all the time. He is sweet so I don't mind!

That is the Montie Family Update! Over and out!

The Power $

2011-07-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all

I have been upside down busy with Summer fun, and getting ready for an awesome year of preschool and with my project Guatemala Embrace Effort. That is where I have been. Hence there is a bit of an absence from my blogging crusade!! (oh ya and I started writing a bit).

I have been involved with some humanitarian efforts aside from mine lately. You know rolling my sleeves up and getting my hands dirty as well as getting inspired. I had many thoughts come to mind. While planning future event fundraisers for our beloved people of Guatemala. I thought of the power of the dollar. Such great power with the greens.

I have a few examples of what I mean. The power of bargaining when I flash American money. I have some mad skills when it comes to bargaining. I esteem myself kinda high ;) because I can even get lower then most my Guatemalan compadres and they are impressed !!.

Green bills go a long way down there. Our project was able to put bars and locks on a school for 300 American buckaroo's and throw a successful community event for a couple hundred. Yep this was like a 200 person event! Power!

When I shop in the United States and I am shopping I am very conscience of my spending. I know most are but my conscience takes me to a land a few thousand miles away. Instead of thinking this will save us 10 dollars. I think I can buy supplies for a few classrooms with my excess (the power to expand my savings). Even on a poor student/family budget we can spread the wealth. I am no where close to wealthy, but when it comes to my friends down South. I live steps above the rest.

This mentality is contagious and has infected my children. They have such a givers mentality. They often think of not only friends in faraway lands but their neighbor and friends here.

Guatemala Embrace Effort has some fabulous projects in the works. Namely a school pen pal program, The Embrace Race, Fencing an adorably needful school in Guatemala, and our annual event. So if you are feeling the infectious need to give. Just think where your coupon savers could give you. Boundless blessing that far out weigh temporary things :)

That is positively a power thing!

Good Summer

2011-07-20T08:53:00.001-07:00

I finished my stripes, but now I think I have a new addiction and want to paint a couple more walls :) As much as I loathe painting I do love the end product. I have a few more projects I would like to get done before the school year starts. Why is Summer going by so fast? It has basically wrapped up for our household with Michael back to school/ work. I say work because he is done with 2nd year and he now is doing his clinical rotations which makes life feel pretty normal which I love. I even dare say it feels like a vacation compared to the first two years!!!
We went to Emporia Kansas for the 4th. We had such a great time being with family. We enjoyed yummy dutch oven, grilled pizza, fishing, train rides, antiquing, water parking ;) and really feeling the spirit of the 4th in small town America. I couldn't of asked for a better way to celebrate!! Big thank you to the "other" Montie Family for taking such care of us and making the best memories. The kids a great time!!

Prayers

2011-06-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Prayers to my friends The Grimshaw's. Life has moved forward distancing myself from many high school friends, but when something difficult comes to past I fall back to my East Side Vegas roots. Please check out their blog!

www.robgrimshaw.blogspot.com

Remember my blurb about true humanitarianism? Here is your chance to be "human"!!!

xo,

C

Hot Summer Family Time

2011-06-19T16:08:00.001-07:00

Michael swims (this is a big accomplishment)

Hanging out with friends

Fathers Day gift (fishing poles)

I have to blog that my sweet boy Michael can finally swim. He went from completely frightened a couple weeks ago, to floaties, and then HE took them off on his own and swam off. One thing I admire about him. He will practice and practice until he conquers something. He is very tenacious and persistent. It may help that he is a perfectionist. One thing he says over and over again "Montie's don't give up" I love that boy! He is such a great leader for his siblings.

Hooray for at least one of our kiddos swimming It make trips to the pool a whole lot easier and a lot more fun too. I do have to say Abigail who wouldn't even really get in the water now "swims" on her own with floaties. It is something she is very proud of, and we are too.

Summer is heating up and the hubby will be done with his last test on Tuesday. It will be nice to get that off our shoulders. After that we are planning a small little vacation to Kansas to see his brothers family before they move back West. He are sad because they are the closest family we have (they live 7 hours away). I am a total West Coast girl and I always will be. Love that mountains and beaches are close and most importantly our families live there. Some day we will return to our Western roots. For now we will soak up some Texas sun and Southern hospitality :)

Human-itrian

2011-06-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

Being humanitarian does not necessarily involve getting on the next plane to a third world country, hugging children, and perpetuating the typical Western “do-gooder” stereotype. In fact, humanitarianism is a rich tradition that encompasses a variety of political, social, and economic activities appealing to both sides of the political aisle.

Personally I think its just being human. So how human are you?

Get involved.

Guatemala Embrace Effort
Casa Jackson
(Just a couple of my favorite organizations!)

My Life Lately

2011-06-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

Lately because Michael has been studying for boards too many hours a day ;) I have been kid over loaded. Don't get me wrong I love my kids but I can't wait until Michael is done. I need a little me time. He assures me I will get it and I can't wait. Until then I have been doing a few things to keep me going.

~I have taken the kids swimming a lot or we will play in our back yard little pool.
~Guns and grenades is a big game around here. I am rolling all over the floor dodging bullets and getting blown up,
~I have been Abigail's patient. She loves being my doctor and often reassures me I am going to make it and I will be okay. In her little Dr. world that gives me more encouragement then she will ever know.
~Teaching a baby boy to go down the stairs backward. He is mastering it everyday.
~Deep cleaning. Getting rid of anything and everything I can. I am so not a pack rat.
~Preschool prep. I have 9 kids next year including my own. I have most of the Fall lessons planned. I am just trying to get everything organized and ready. I am pumped for this year. I have the cutest kids on the planet!
~Training for the Weatherford Texas half marathon in October. It has been slow going because Michael can't spare me gone very long. So 6-7 miles is about my max right now because of time but I am getting faster ;)
~Guatemala Embrace Effort is forever ongoing and is doing wonderful things but occupies a lot of time. Time I am happy to give away!

We are staying pretty busy around here, but its Summer busy. I could do Summer busy all year long!

El Verano...so far!

2011-06-10T18:44:00.001-07:00

Kids doing crafts with friends

Sam climbs up the stairs and is starting to go down fine, but I am still nervous.

Michael and his pal checking out the coins.

Summer has been great so far except I was really sick at the very start. I finally got over it, and we are back into the swing of SUMMER. Since their dad is studying for boards it has been just me and the kids. I have taken 3 kids to the pool by myself a lot, and have had many swim play dates already. Michael is getting use to swimming with floaties. I am hoping by the end of the Summer he will swim without them. I have braved other activities with three kids ages 5 and under all by my lonesome. I am braver then I use to be. I suppose that comes with the territory of having a medical student for a husband. If I didn't brave the public tantrums, and exhausting excursions alone we would have a lame Summer sitting at home. So I vowed I would have fun with them spite daddy being occupied. I am really having fun and love hanging out with my kiddos.

Summer is in Session

2011-06-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

My pictures are out of order but oh well right. Michael finished PreK this year. Since his birthday is in the Fall he missed the Kindergarten cut off. It was fine though. He did fantastic and he had great teachers. Ms. Ortega and Ms. Matthews. They were the perfect introduction into school, and they loved my Mike. He loved them too so for the end of the year he asked me if he could buy flowers for them. The teachers loved their little gift. A big thank you to all those magical teachers out there that love and connect with your students. I for one am grateful for you!

My garden is doing awesome!!!! Here is a garden shot for my mama!

The lovely teachers I admire and will miss! Thank you!

Los Nenes!

2011-06-07T17:58:00.000-07:00

Something happened to me during Guatemala Embrace Effort's service trip this past May. I knew what I was getting myself into, but I could not anticipate the emotions felt during one part of this trip. We visited a clinic for dangerously malnourished children. I read up on the organization and knew some of the cases before I went. I knew some of the situations were really sad, but I also know these children were offered great hope and wellness.

We were on day 2 of our trip and had a meeting with the director. The meeting went well and the tour was amazing. We were able to roll our sleeves up and love these beautiful babies. I was struck by their deep brown/black eyes and my heart ached. It ached at first for my three children I left back home in the States. One baby was the same age as my Sam. Very ill, failure to thrive and was dying. Casa Jackson was helping him but I hurt inside for him and ached the pains only a mother would ache. I was touched deep to the core of my soul and took it personally that this was happening. I wiped my tears and had a new resolve to help change this. The ache for my own babies turned to gratitude for their safety back home and my ache for these sweet children turned into determination. I focused and we all at GEE worked hard all week and we actually made a real difference. We helped and it has only begun. We have so much to do. I will never get those deep brown eyes out of my brain. They are imprinted on my very being. I will always take a child going hungry personal. I am mom and that's what we do!

Hello

2011-06-05T16:34:00.000-07:00

I decided to renew my blogging hobby. I think I lost the fire because of other social networks. I realized how much I really missed writing. I think I might be back for a while. I am not a cool blogger for fame sake seeking a bunch of hits. I blog for me. So it may not be amazing to most!

Life has been in the fast lane. Too fast I might add. Full of surprises, hardships, happiness, and miracle after miracle. I like my crazy life. It is full of three wonderful children. Each unique but add just the right flavor to our Montie mix. The hubby is about to be an MS3 (med student 3 yr). His boards are fast approaching which is a journey in itself. Oh and what about me? I decided to start a nonprofit with a friend of mine over a year ago in the mist of this intense not so convenient time in my life, but just when I think I am nuts. I can't get the imprinted imagines of those beautiful brown eyed babies in a land called Guatemala out of my mind! :)

This year has included so far:

Sam~ turning 1, he walks, runs, say a couple words, and eats a whole lot.

Abigail~ Turned 3, finished preschool, loves to dance, and play with all her friends (every toy in the house).

Michael~ Finished preK, is enrolled in bilingual Kindergarten, finished his third season in soccer (he scored 6 goals in one game once), he ties his shoes, and reads. (big strides this year so far).

Daddy Mike~ Finished MS2 and is studying for boards, and remodeled the upstairs bathroom.

Cherine (me)~ Finished teaching preschool, and had a successful service trip to Guatemala.

So excited for what the hot Texas Summer may bring to us :)

Life

2011-01-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

These two pictures are from Christmas. We had such a lovely time. It was so fun to see my family. It had been about a year and half. We got to see everyone which the last time was well over 3 years. I got to meet my brothers cute girlfriend, eat way to much food, stay up way too late, laugh, watch my kids play with their cousins, and make awesome memories. Thank you to my brothers sweet wife who had a house full for 7 days :)
We spent New Years at our good friends The Dalton's. We ate super yummy food and play card games until midnight. Our kids have so much fun with theirs. Phoebe is the sweet little girl we carpool with and when her and Lil' Mike play they seem to always play "Mom and Dad". They are great friends.

I have thought about this for a while, but I have decided to finish my blog books and discontinue my blog. I have two goals this year. One is to simplify and the other is to step up the positives in my life (like spiritual things). I will be seen on Facebook and my nonprofit website. There you can see what i have been up to lately.

Guatemala Embrace Effort has truly been a miracle. I see mircles often now and see the Lord's hand in this vision. We have so long to go but we are helping people and it feels good. We have big dreams for this G.E.E and hope to see them pan out. My kids want to learn Spanish, they want to help, they inspire me. My community is getting involved, my family, and my wonderful friends. Thank you to everyone who is supporting our cause. It takes a lot of time and resources which I seem to come up short, But thanks to great effort of my husband, my great partner Sherrie and her hubby, and our fabulous volunteer board consisting of an awesome group namely. Jessica, Mark, Eric, Jana, Analu, Brooke. Thanks guys!

It was a good blog run for about 4 years. I have enjoyed it but my attentions need to be focused on something else and my little journal by my bed will be my main writing outlet. Loves to all!!!

Cherine

Quickly

2011-01-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

I need to update from Thanksgiving, and Christmas. I have so many pictures to upload be prepared. Life is grand and its 2011...who would of thought. It is a big year. I mean I turn 30 in a couple weeks. YIKES. Off to church will upload luego. Later skater :)

My Kiddies

2010-11-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

Sam is CRAWLING, EATING EVERYTHING, HAS TWO TEETH, and SAID MAMA. Yep he is all over the place. Even though this is my third baby it doesn't take away from the excitement of his progression. I am not a fan of him growing so fast but I love it at the same time. He is very sweet. He crawls to me anytime I enter the room. He is definitely a mama's boy. I don't mind one bit. Of course he has to compete with his sissy. Abigail still is attached at my hip. Again, no quarrels with me ;)
My two lovies. I can't get enough of these two. They are very close. I can't wait until Lil' Mike comes home from school everyday (because I miss him dearly) and I love when Abigail first wakes up. She is NONSTOP chatty and never forgets to ask me how I slept. Can time just freeze for a while?

Journal Time

2010-11-04T15:56:00.001-07:00

October flew by so fast. I am still recovering from all the madness. It was good madness but I am ready for it to slow down. Maybe I am aiming too high and need to lower my expectations, because I don't see it slowing down anytime soon haha. I can't help, but think of this holiday season and everything that comes with it.

Thanksgiving is such a fun time. Very different for us in most ways because we have not had a Thanksgiving dinner with our immediate family in 4 years or so. It is more about my little family where ever we may reside, being thankful for them in my life. We will probably spend it with good company as always so I am excited.

I have some service projects on the agenda for my family this year. The biggest being our nonprofit Guatemala Embrace Effort. We are raising money to put bars on their school and to throw some big community fundraisers in the town in Chimaltenango. We really want to get locals involved rather some Americans crusading acting like they have all the answers. We don't so any help an involvement by their own would be awesome! I feel the Lords hand in all our humanitarian endeavors and I am just grateful I can help. If you are interested in helping please check out our website Guatemalaembraceeffort.org
And check us out on facebook.

We are also collecting cans for a local food shelter. So any local friends drop a can off at my house. Canned meats namely tuna fish will suffice.

Christmas this year will be fantastic. Going home and eating my mama's holiday goods is like a dream come true. I look forward to having fun and rowdy conversations with my siblings. My mom and I always stay up late chatting. I can't wait to stay at my brothers house. He has the best wife on the planet. She is like the sister-in-law everyone wants. She is cute, crafty, fun, pretty ;) and just great all around. She has the perfect kid house to keep my kiddos entertained for days. She is the only SHE in the family. 5 boys she lives with. So Abigail might be a little treat for her or she will learn after the stay that 4 little boys of her own is not a shabby gig. 6.5 weeks and yes I am counting down like a mad woman! Minus the 20 hour drive we are super pumped.
Okay enough of my holiday agenda.

I must report that Sam Man is crawling like a champ and nothing is safe anymore. He is my fastest crawler. All the other ones crawled at 7 months and he started at 6. I think he really just wants to play with his brother and sister. I understand but dude slow down. He is growing way too fast for my kind ;)

Birthdays, Storm Troopers, and Candy OH MY

2010-11-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

Here is Michael pretending to "get" the Storm Trooper. This is at our ward Trunk-or-Treat. This guy had the coolest costume by far and Michael's jaw dropped when he saw him. Michael is obsessed with Star Wars. He had three different wardrobe changes during all the Halloween festivities. He was Darth Vader for his Halloween birthday party, Anikan Skywalker, and Obe One Kanobe at other Halloween shindigs.

Michael turned the big FIVE! It is crazy to me. He is such a big boy. When I woke him up on his birthday he asked if he was five yet. When I told him he was he couldn't stop smiling. He said he was a big kid now. In the past five years I have been endlessly blessed raising him. He teaches me so much and I am proud to be his mama.

We had a Halloween birthday party this year. There were 15 kids total. To say it was insane would be an understatement. We had a BLAST but I did learn a few things :) Most importantly my big boy had the time of his life, and that is all I really cared about!
I did it again. I chopped my hair. It is very liberating and you know I don't feel so frumpy because I can't just throw it in a ponytail. I actually have to do it and you know I feel so much better put together almost daily (you catch that ALMOST part right).Thanks to my sweet friend who hooked me up with her fabulous skills. I love it! I need to simplify things and well here is a start to many changes in the works. Trying to prepare for my grand entrance into the 30's :)
PRESCHOOL KIDS: I have such a cute preschool group. They make me smile. I had a Halloween party for them. It was so fun. We played Creepy Freeze Dance, Skeleton Hunt, and all kinds of other games. With that party and the many others we had a LONG week/ weekend. It was fun and so worth all the effort.
Many other things transpired that was very important. The week before all of the Halloween goodness, Michael turned the ripe age of 28 ( I know he is young), and we had our 6 anniversary. I feel very blessed for a great spouse and beautiful children. Everything I could ever want a more.
For now I am looking forward to Christmas. I kind of wish I could skip Thanksgiving this year (though I have so much to be grateful for). Mostly, because I miss home. I haven't been there for about 18 months. It is about time I head back to the desert. I can't wait to see my family, play with my nephews, jog up Sunrise Mountain, visit the Vegas Temple (by far the best place in town), and see my wonderful friends. Oh ya and do a little shopping ;) VIVA LAS VEGAS!!!

Our Fun and Fabulous Life in Texas!

2010-10-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

Not the best picture of Sam BUT it shows a few things. A- He walks all over in his walker. The boy is crazy and if you don't watch out he will run over your toes (just ask Abigail)B- He is drooling and teething like crazy,and C- he is eating baby food hence the stains on his shirt. I love this kid. He is so sweet and such a mamas boy. He rolls everywhere and always gets stuck either at the wall or couch or some random spot. He eats everything in sight and laughs so hard. He makes me smile! He weighs 20 pounds. He will be 6 months in a couple of weeks. That is Sam the Man!
My two buddies. They are best friends and take such good care of each other, BUT they can also fight like crazy. Let me start with Sasigail.

Abigail Eva is such a funny cute little girl. She calls herself a big girl and big she is. She loves to perform. She sings everywhere and wants you to applaud. She isn't much into girl stuff though I try so hard. She loves playing Star Wars with Michael and her latest roll is Darth Vader. She loves all her friends and has been blessed with two best friends she says. Little A and T. They come over often or she goes over their house. She just loves all her girl friends. That is the only time she'll play with girl stuff. Or else she is all about imaginary play with her big bro. She has missed Michael so much since he has started school. They play so well when he gets home. She always wants mom to "snug" her. She has dad wrapped around her little finger. One of my favorite things lately is that we will have family prayer before we all head out in the mornings and she has to run to the door and give her dad a kiss and a hug before he leaves. She will have a melt down if she doesn't get that good bye kiss and hug! She loves her daddy. Oh and for Halloween after many mind changes she has finally decided on being a pink bunny. It really is adorable! PS she is perfectly potty trained no night time accidents but one at the start. She is doing great!

Mike Mike: Is so wonderful. The perfect first child. He is so responsible. I swear he aged so much since he started school. He will be 5 at the end of the month and it chokes me up. He LOVES his baby brother and is very protective of him. He is starting to sound out words and is trying to read. He is doing well in school. I had my first teacher conference and she said he is way ahead of the rest. It almost brought a tear to my eye. He tells me very often he wants to be a scientist or a Jedi. Depends on the day. Speaking of Jedi that is all he is into lately. Star Wars. He is going to be Obe One Kenobe for Halloween. He asked me if Yoda was powerful like Heavenly Father. He is so intrigued by good and bad and always asks why people choose the wrong way. Every moment seems to be a teaching moment with him. He plays on the Dark Knights soccer team and he is doing well. He has requested playing piano and playing football. We shall see down the road if he is still interested. Michael wants to be just like his dad. He does EVERYTHING he does. He loves him. Michael is my love. I adore him!
The above pictures are my Activity Day girls. I have the older group 10 and 11. They are a blast. I have been really blessed to be in a fabulous ward. I have said it before but when I hear stories of the pioneer women in Nauvoo going house to house caring for each other. I feel I have found my Nauvoo sisters. They take care of me. and my family. Speaking of these gals about 12 or more of us are going to Time Out For Women in Plano this weekend and staying the night. Should be fun. Can't wait! Michael and I were both called to teach Temple Prep which we will start this Sunday and I am so excited. Just reading over the material I feel like I have learned so much. Such a wonderful blessing to get to teach about my favorite place. I have been teaching preschool Tuesday and Thursday and I have the best group of kids. I really enjoy that and love teaching. I have been blessed with wonderful network of friends through medical school. I have made the greatest friends ever. S and I have been training for a half marathon. We have run 12 miles and we weren't even out of breath. It was great. I will continue to run even though because of an abscess tooth (another post) I have had to withdraw from the race. There are more coming up. I guess I don't need a shirt saying I can run that far. I can and I feel great! That is life with me!!!
This hunk of heaven is my sweetheart. He is the best support system I could of ever asked for. I love that we get to serve in a calling together along side other callings. He teaches Elders Q as well. Such a stud I tell you. I bought him a mullet and said figure out your own costume for Halloween. We are all dressing up because little Mike is having a costume party birthday. Michael is doing well in school. 2nd year has proven to be a little tough but he is enduring it well. It is about half over and then he will be in the hospital. I am sure he is super pumped about that. Michael has enjoyed this institute class he as been attending every week and loves reading and researching church history material. It has become quit a hobby for him. He is a positive force in our house hold. We love you daddy!

Things coming up this month: Root Canal (yay for no more pain but boo too)
6 year anniversary
Michael turns 28 (what a baby right haha)
Little Mike turns 5
Sam turns 6 months
Halloween festivities from Six Flags/Trunk-or-Treat/Mikes party/preschool party
6 Dr. appt's this month (lame)

HAPPY OCTOBER!

New Stuff

2010-08-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

I don't have my memory card (oopsie). Sorry no pictures, but soon I promise.

We have had so many things happen and coming up and we are all excited!

1. Michael started second year medical school about a month ago.

2. Abigail is potty trained for good (thank goodness).

3. Sam is 4 months (don't have his stats..his appt. is Thursday)

4. I am the Activity Leader

5. Little Mike starts school on August 23 (crazy).

6. I am teaching preschool this year. I have felt prompted to do it for a while. So here we go.

7. I am tutoring Spanish for a family in my ward (so stoked).

8.Guatemala Embrace Effort is starting to move (501 c3 status is taking forever. Dang IRS)

9.Still training for my half marathon, but my back is having issues so we shall see.

10. Traveled to Nauvoo in July and visited Ben and Ann in Kansas on the way (pictures to come)

11. Little Mike starts soccer again.

12. Had our first SAA meeting of the year and we have some great new med student wives. Already had a successful and fun ladies night out (plus Chris) on top of the Reata.

13. There are probably more things but there is the recent run down. When Michael gets back from school I will get my memory card back and upload some pictures! CIAO

A Dream Come True

2010-07-14T06:42:00.001-07:00

We did it. I am really excited and so hopeful we will help these people. Please check out.

http://guatemalaembraceeffort.org

The site is about the non profit organization I started with a friend. It has taken many months and long hours to get this off the ground. Thanks to some awesome divine intervention things are coming together and we are hopefully going to help a lot of people. It would mean so much to me if you can take a second to look at our website. You won't regret it!

With all my heart,

Cherine

My Life

2010-07-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am in love with Sam. He is my little lovie. He makes me smile so much. He is cooing all the time and let me just say little man has a deep little coo. It cracks me up. He is growing so fast it is insane to me. It makes me sad, but I do adore his personality as it manifests itself more on a daily basis!
Mike and Abigail are so excited that their dad is home for three weeks. They are all over daddy all day which I love because it gives me a much needed break. Speaking of a break I did get to go to the midnight premier to Eclipse with some of the ladies. Summer and Bridgette. It was really fun. The crowd was of course buck wild but oh so fun. The movie was good in my opinion and significantly better then the other two. So kudos to David Slade the director.
BOLT. Well, this dog is a long story and he could possibly be making a permanent residence here with the Montie family. He is a funny playful dog. I think he is a handsome one too!
I cut Mike's hair. He looks all grown up to me. I do miss his curls. I kind of like the once a year haircut. I did it for the hot Summer here and for when he starts school. He kept telling me he missed his hair and was sad because he wanted to look like Uncle Eric. Oh well hair grows back!

Life is good for me. I have been consistent with working out. I have lost a few pounds and only have a few more to go. I am starting to fit into my smaller clothes. About dang time. It has taken so much work and I have so much more to go! We were planning on going out of town to the Gulf but the hurricane is putting a damper on our plans. Hopefully as soon as the storm calms down we can head to the beach. Since the hurricane, we have been storming here so crazy. We are hoping for a little break so we can have a decent 4th of July.

Michael finished his first year and what a ride. Having a kid added some intense moments but we survived. I'm excited for his second year (starts in a couple weeks). He will have an even fuller plate but I believe, God willing, he will do just dandy. Time is flying during this med school chapter and the chapter has been hard but oh so rewarding. CONGRATS MICHAEL..JOB WELL DONE!

World Cup

2010-06-19T06:56:00.001-07:00

Our family has been following World Cup closely. The games have all been so good and intense. I just love this sport and miss playing it. I just stand and pace when the US is playing. We have our posters and American flags out when it is our game.

I have a buddy playing for the team this year that really makes it fun. Herculez Gomez. I am really proud of him and have watched him play throughout his career. My brother is in South Africa representing our family for him. It is a joy to see him obtain his dreams.

World cup is better watched on the Spanish station. I speak Spanish but even if I didn't I would watch it on those channels. The World Cup commercials I thought could compete with the Super Bowl ones. They are hilarious.

I have some new favorite international fav's. I think I am loving this German player (blanked his name), I like Gerard from England, and a few more.

I also think Maradona is a Diva in the worst way. He is known all over for his mad skills. Now old and coaching Argentina I think he thinks he is even that much more awesome.

I love World Cup (have I mentioned that)

Brasilia 2014....oh yea...I hope to attend!

My Life

2010-06-12T05:33:00.000-07:00

Has been hectic, but in a good way!

Our life:

Is all about the above and below pictures!!!

-Michael finished soccer, is registered for school (brought a tear to my eye), got a hair cut (pictures to come), is excited to watch the World Cup, and is an awesome big brother.

-Abigail was all about her Grandpa Paul when they came to Texas for Sam's blessing, loves to dance to Waka Waka the World Cup Song by Shakira, is adjusting to Sam and loves him, knows how to count really well in Spanish and English, and growing like a weed.

-Sam, what a cutie, he has rolled over a few times, eats a ton, smiles bunches, and is starting to coo and make cute baby noises. His personality is starting come out. I can't imagine him not part of this family. He is little Mike's mini me. I have such flashbacks when I stare at him of his older brother.

-Daddy Mike, is almost done with his first year. This year flew by so fast. It was a busy year for him. He has done well. I can't believe he is basically a 2 year (they only get 3 weeks off before he starts again). He has learned a lot and done a lot in the community and for Texas with volunteer hours they have to have and serving the elderly. I am very proud of this father of three and all he has done this year.

-Me, I started to train 3 weeks ago as soon as I got the go ahead from my Dr. I run Mon,Wed,Fri,Sat and lift Tues/Thurs. I have sore muscles and joints. I dropped a lot of weight initially but have not for a little while now because I have gained muscle mass so I think it has balanced it out. I still have a way to go before I reach my goals but I am on my way.

Other stuff we have been up to in random order from off the top of my head. We had Sam's blessing and my parents were able to fly out for a few days. The kids were in Heaven. My dad painted my kitchen, and cooked awesome food. We were able to got downtown Dallas and see where JFK was shot and hang with other conspiracy groupies and it was actually pretty fun. I was happy to hang out with them and sad to see them leave.

The blessing was beautiful and I was so grateful for friends of ours to come out and support from Mikes school members and nonmembers came to sacrament and over for lunch afterward. It was a great experience.

I am sorry for the lack of posts and promise to post more picture of the kids especially Sam because he has changed so much as all babies do. Much love!

Life Is Good

2010-05-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Do you have to be reminded that life is good a lot? I sometimes do. When I think of it I realize I am blessed.

I have a husband. One that doesn't allow me to be complacent, one who compliments me, one who dedicates himself to me.

I have children who are good at loving.

I am not good at a lot but I know how to love my kids.

I am a mother. I have my God, my faith, and my family!

Cherine Montie

The Story

2010-04-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

I know all birthing stories sound about the same with few variations. So I will get to the point where this one was unique for my family!

Right before I was actually going to push. Dr. Garner (the coolest chick around) asked Michael if he'd like to deliver. He answered with a big smile and said sure! So she tells the nurses to suit him up. So here is my husband all ready to deliver our boy. I was really excited. Instead of listening to anyone I watched Michael and he was so encouraging and took charge like a pro. The Dr was telling him exactly what was going on because the baby was HUGE...well for me. The shoulders were the thing they had to be careful about because I didn't realize this but after the head comes out they come fast and you actually have to push them back and rotate their body out else it would cause me some serious damage if you know what I mean. So they are conversing while I pushed. I pushed for about 10 minutes which was a lot longer then I thought I would because I didn't push Abigail at all. Back to watching Michael do this.

He was really enjoyable to watch. I saw a really neat side of him I cannot explain, but it was great! After Michael pulled out Samuel and gently put him on my stomach I was both over joyed and amazed that he was so big. My Dr kept saying oh he'll be 7 pounds etc. and since he was about 2 weeks early I expected as much. As the weeks neared the end I could barely walk and I just felt he might be a tad on the big side.

Low and behold he is just shy of 9 pounds, 21 and 1/4 inches long! I am SO thankful he came earlier then expected. He was very bruised. His hands, back, and shoulders. Not from delivery but from sitting so low inside of me. His bruises have for the most part disappeared but it looked painful. So he and I battled out this pregnancy together.

He eats like a beast so much that they made me suppliment in the hospital to keep his blood sugar level up, and I must admit I am struggling to keep up with his demand! He is growing so well so I have nothing to complain about. He is the perfect addition to our family. He looks like his older brother but with thicker hair like his sister. He reminds me a lot of his dad. So it will be fun to see what he looks like as he changes.

The kids have done well. Little Michael stayed the night in the hospital because he was really concerned about Samuel and we had a blast. The night nurses spoiled him with snacks and we just stayed up and watch movies. I went home the next day to a different Abigail. Up to that point she was my baby. I really thought so, but until I brought Samuel home I finally realized she is a little girl and that seemed shocking to me. She loves Samuel, but was a little unsure of her place with me. She is understanding more and more each day and filling in her big sister role very well!

We have been blessed greatly!

The end!

SAM

2010-04-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Samuel Abraham Montie 8lbs 15oz 21inches

Baby and mom are doing great!

Boy oh Boy

2010-04-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to meet this boy. I have about 5 more days left (assuming I don't go earlier). We have been super busy getting everything baby ready again. The kids are psyched, and I am sooooo dying at nights I just wish it were sooner!

Baby clothes and blankets organized and washed.....CHECK

Cradle up......CHECK

Kids rooms and house clean......CHECK

Diapers/bottles etc........CHECK

Bag packed.........CHECK

Daddy Michael able to walk more........BIG CHECK (partial calf muscle tear, long story)

I still need to

big grocery shop

hit up Barnes and Noble for my book

and I am sure I am forgetting the other million things I wanted to get done before I go to the hospital! Stay tuned for our little arrival!

POST EDIT. I am pretty sure I got everything done. I am contracting and I hope they don't stop =)

I love....

2010-04-07T17:23:00.000-07:00

Catching moments like this between my two loves.

Spending Easter and watching General Conference with family, friends, and YUMMY FOOD!

Watching my son play soccer. He would make Uncle Eric proud.

Shopping for dresses for this little girl. I couldn't get her to smile, but she is still a cutie to me!

Journal Post..(you can skip down to the belly shot post before)

2010-04-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

I hurt...he hurts me...will I last another couple of weeks??????????????????????? These are constant things that run through my mind lately. I have never felt so handicapped by a pregnancy. I walk so slow and when I say slow, I mean older more frail people walk around me. People stare so bad as if they have never seen a pregnant person. I guess not as many run around these parts like they did in Utah. I have so much to do before his arrival and honestly I physically can't do it anymore.

I was having such a hard night a few nights ago. Up every hour with hard back labor. I thought I might be in labor but the way I felt was very foreign to me I had nothing to compare it to. By morning it didn't go away. So I went into the doc. He checked me and said things looked good but I needed to lay down more because he was probably "sunny side up". I thought I'd die because the pains were sickly intense. So what to do other then ask my husband and a school mate of his for a blessing. I knew I couldn't survive those fake labor pains every hour for 3 more weeks. The blessing was wonderful and the extreme pain ceased. I was back to normal pains.

It is hard not to pick up my kids. Play on the floor with them, or even change Abigail's diaper. I miss those things so much. I know this won't last and I am at the end but it does get me down sometimes.

Having said all of that I must say in all of it I have seen the Lord's tender mercies. My mother-in-law is here for a few weeks helping. She has been able to step in where I can't do anything. Michael has been able to study more and do well on exams. Not that he has done bad, he just hasn't been overly stressed. He is able to rest more. Though I don't have everything unpacked, but my house is clean and in order. So what do I have to complain about. I try to think of my little boy in my tummy to remind me this is a special and scared opportunity to carry him and allow him to come to earth and what a privilege it is to have him be part of our family.

I don't tell people this much, but I have known this little spirit for quit some time now. I have known his name and who he was before I had little Mike. He has been a strength to me from time to time. I think maybe Heavenly Father allowed me to know of him because my pregnancies have been hard and I needed my sweet boy to remind me he was waiting. I thought Abigail was going to be him. I as delighted for my girl, and she was our perfect addition. I knew he was again waiting for me and not to give up and endure my hardships with child bearing. After I found out it was a boy I felt that sweet assurance it was indeed my Samuel. My little coach helping me get through this. Through all of my hardships he has been the toughest. I think maybe I am being tested and proven to rear this sweet boy. I hope I don't fail him. I love him and I can't wait to meet him! He will be a wonderful brother to Michael and so kind to his sister.

So am I done after this one? I am not sure. I wish I knew, but for now I love my 3!

Here You Go Melissa

2010-04-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Here is my HUGE WHALE OF A TUMMY photo shot. I feel big. So there you go girl. ;)

ps these were taken about a week ago!

Abigail and the magic 2

2010-03-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

My little girl is more pirate then princess. So we had a fun little pirate party. She loved all her friends coming over, and playing pirate games. Their favorite was we made hot pink and black pirate boats out of all the boxes from moving and had them throw water balloons at each other.

I still can't believe she is two. She is such a fun, loving, and sassy little addition to our family. She loves to snuggle me, chat and just hang out with me. I couldn't have asked for a better little girl!

Spring Break

2010-03-21T12:44:00.001-07:00

We had visitors for a whole week and it was a delight. My husband had Spring Break and what a fun break we had! First, it was so awesome to have him home not studying, second we had family fly in to spend it with us. We did so much the kids were just exhausted by the end of the week. We kicked it off with the Fort Worth Zoo, Cowboy Stadium, Cow Town (Adam and little Mike road a mechanical bull), Fossil Rim Animal Reserve (and hand fed animals like giraffes from our car), Botanical Gardens, Central Market, and last but not least ate some of the best food my pallet has ever tasted!

That was our Spring Break in a nut shell. I am thankful the kids were able to spend time with their grandma and uncles. I don't realize how much we miss family until we are around them! A big thank you to Ann, Mark and Adam for flying out to us.

On another note. My husband will be back to the grind tomorrow with school, and I have only 4 weeks until I have this baby. I am very excited for obvious reasons and too I don't think I can stretch anymore. He hurts so bad. Can't wait to meet our little guy we have been waiting so long for. For now we are just getting prepared for his arrival and enjoying some awesome Spring weather!!!! =)

Man Oh Man

2010-03-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

Life has been quit insane to say the least. I for now just really want to have this baby. I don't know if it is because this is baby #3, or it is just this kid, but I am soooooooo miserably uncomfortable!!!! My stomach hurts so bad to the touch. I don't think my body can stretch anymore, or it shouldn't. 7 weeks and counting (I have been counting for weeks).

Other things that have transpired.

Abigail turned 2. I feel bad that I haven't posted anything and honestly we didn't celebrate (yet). That will come at a later date when her grandma arrives!

Little Mike started soccer. His first game is Saturday and he is extremely pumped to say the least.

We finally moved to our new house and we feel really blessed. We love it and the kids love it (especially the big backyard and the horses behind our fence).

Michael is doing well in school. He did amazing on his Endocrinology test despite all the house hassle and not having time to study much. He amazes me honestly.

That is about all on our side of the world!

2010-02-11T08:55:00.001-08:00

Michael above leaving for his Valentine's party at school
below him wearing my glasses telling bedtime stories.

We had another snow storm here in Texas. I am sick of the cold, but one good thing is that they cancel school. So Michael stayed home and made a snowman with the kids. They had such a good time.

Below is my favorite picture of Abigail. She is such a funny girl. She says things like " no way", or "slow down dude" when we are driving fast and pulls this face. It makes me laugh. I really can't take her serious when she does it.

I got a really nice camera for my birthday and I am so happy! I am just trying to figure the beast out. I love it so much. I just pull out my camera for the most random things but that is because I love it. Did I mention I love it =)

29

2010-02-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

Really? In about in hour and half. Not sure how I feel about that =). Good night!

I need to post!

2010-01-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

Okay so I have a crappy camera and have not shelled out for a good one yet (someday). We have had a lot going on. So I will just post anyway with no pictures. Sorry!

Little Mike's results came back good. So we just have to make him pee often. I thought the fact that he had steel trap bladder was awesome, but it has turned out to be not so cool! He is getting better at going right when he needs to without being barked at!

Michael's school semester seems harder and busier than his first. A test and quiz about weekly. We of course decide to buy a home and have a baby during this time. Yea for planning. Hahaha! He is doing well though. He keeps up well. He doesn't sleep much at all and still does all his fatherly duties no moans and groans. I on the other hand am super crabby pants on lack of sleep, added with pregnancy etc. etc. etc. I am scary!

Abigail has been skipping to her own beat. Very miss independent slash bossy and so sweet at the same time. I don't know how it works but it does for her. She can bully her brother and it bugs him but the next moment she is rubbing his back and being all nice and he loves it. I guess I can say they are typical siblings. They play hard and fight hard! She is taller then most girls her age and her hair (pulling down the curls) goes to the middle of her back. She talks all day so most people think she is 3 and freak out when I tell them she isn't even two yet!

I myself and just trying to keep it all together. I have to admit am very high strung with this whole buying a house thing. We are suppose to close in a few days. I don't even know if we have all our ducks in a row to pull it off but we'll see. I have been packing a little more. I have too many things on my to do list these days. I have so many projects I want to start with no time. Having said all that I was able to drop it all and go for a run. Yes a run all 27 weeks pregnant of me and it felt WONDERFUL! There were the aches and pains still but I just needed a run. My legs were a little sore the next day and I was in heaven. I love that feeling so much! So that is going to be my dose of "everything is going to be okay" medicine along with my scripture study.

Baby is good. We are just waiting for his arrival. After the arrival of our nephew baby Greyson I have been pretty impatient. I can't wait to meet him. He is active and keeps me up a lot by kicking me in those places all his other siblings did that just shouldn't be kicked! He is great and fits in so well I can already tell!

There is my LONG WINDED UPDATE. I probably won't post much before we move. I do need to post our animal reserve photos ( mental note). Good bye for now!

Stress

2010-01-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

So to compound the stress of moving. Little Mike has been in a lot of pain. He says it hurts to pee. He often holds it too long so I figured it was him holding it. Then he complained his tummy hurt and I would see him buckled over in pain. So we made an appt. to see if he has a bladder infection. He loved that fact he got to pee in a cup. Protienuria showed up in is urine which is basically protein. They believe it is something to do with his kidney's so they immediately scheduled him for an ultrasound at Cook's Children's Hospital here. It is scheduled for Monday. It is only a few days away but he woke up crying saying his tummy hurt so I made him pee. He limped all the way to the bathroom balling and he kept yelling ouch and crying hard when he urinated. It does have his dad worried because he has learned too much about the body and symptoms etc. I refuse to know much until all the test are done. It could be really bad things I refuse to name or something as simple as bladder reflux where the urine goes backward into the kidney. I hope we find out soon because he seems to be getting worse and these procedures to find out results are not fun for an adult so being a little boy is really sad! I just hope and pray that he is okay.

Timing seems never right for this kind of thing between his visits, my Dr. visits, other meeting, packing and closing all in a couple weeks time had me worried but I do feel the Lord lifting some of these burdens. I know he has a watchful eye. I have felt it a lot lately and It feels wonderful to know I have him to lean on!

Where is Januray Going

2010-01-11T10:24:00.000-08:00

I felt like we just had Christmas! Where is January going and why so fast? I am not ready to close on our house in two week and half weeks, I am not ready to be another year older, I don't have the ganas (desire) to pack, and clean. I hope I get that nesting bug soon or else I am in trouble. It just seems like I cannot keep up with my two and get everything else done? Does anyone have an organized cleaning/packing method they can enlighten me with????????? S.O.S/ AYUDA / HELP
SLOW DOWN TIME!

SAA

2010-01-08T08:11:00.000-08:00

School is back into session around this house and I get bored without the hubby. I guess having 2 whole weeks with him was spoiling us a bit. He has a long 6 month semester ahead of him with only a 2 week break before he starts his second year. So I guess it will be two weeks only for breaks for the rest of his schooling career.

I am part of a group called SAA (Student Advocate Association). It is a club for spouses and significant others for medical students. I go to monthly meeting and do service, and just hang out with the gals. I have had the opportunity to meet some really wonderful girls. We spent New Years with a few of them. Any way, I feel such a cool connection with some of them and have had some missionary moments. I am really excited to see where some of it goes. I am thankful for the Lord sending people my way to make those friendships with. I was really missing my gal pals in Utah. I missed my running partner, and her kids. All the moms getting together about everyday to let the kids play and talk about yummy recipes, good books, and how naughty our kids are sometimes. I missed my young women youth group and their constant smiles. It has been a hard transition for me in some ways since our move. I think some of my prayers are being answered and I just feel really grateful. I feel blessed to go through this kind of wild school ride with other admirable women who understand!

New Year Fun

2010-01-02T15:03:00.001-08:00

We went to the Children's Museum on New Years Eve. This place is HUGE and has so much to do. Sadly it was so packed since kids have been out of school. The kids really enjoy it. Above Michael and Abigail are sitting in a real dinosaur foot print someone found in Texas a long time ago, and below Abigail went outside to dig up bones.

That evening we ate at a friends house and had other families join later on to ring in the year. We played fun, and embarrassing games, and ate ALOT! I did have my camera but did not pull it out. I should of because some of the stuff we were doing during one of the games was crazy! Well, I hope every one's new year was great!
Below I took my first belly shot. I don't know how but I haven't gained that much weight (yet) and I am huge! I guess that comes with the same territory where when you have had multiple kids you show faster. I feel like a beached whale. I am 25 weeks. I have a LONG way to go. So here you go mom enjoy. It will probably be the only picture I put up of my tummy. I just feel yucky and not cute at all!

Happy New Year

2009-12-30T19:16:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have a fantastic New Year! Can you believe it is 2010! That is insane to me. I have great hopes for this New Year and we will be ringing it in with a few friends of ours. Fun stuff!

Good bye 2009

You brought me:

my Abigail's first birthday
i turned 28 soon to be 29 (30 is creeping up)
a lot of frequent flyer miles to Michael for med school interviews
a trip back to Guate with my hubby and some siblings
a move to the Lone Star State
medical school craziness
another baby boy in my tummy
daddy Michael turning 27
little Mike turning the big 4
great new friends, but missing my old ones
an offer on a house that was accepted
health and happiness
Thank You Thank You 2009

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-26T14:30:00.000-08:00

Texas was hit with one of its biggest storms in 12 years. My husband ran around and did last minute errands, because they don't have snow plows here so it was terrible to drive. After helping a few people who were stuck he made the best dinner. Stuffed Chipotle chicken, with fried breaded egg plant and Chicken Alfredo. All made by the hands of my sweet hubby. He has never had time off since we have been married so he has been so much help and fun in the kitchen. He is quit talented! We watched Joy to The World, and talked about the Savior with our kids and off to bed they went.
What a merry morning Christmas day was! Michael and Abigail were over the moon excited. I love watching their faces. I can't imagine Christmas without them. I guess it would be kind of boring. Christmas through the eyes of a 4 year old and a 20 month old is somewhat magical and we actually got a white Christmas here! We mostly played all day and it left myself and Michael exhausted. What an ordeal. At least we were all tuckered out early and got some sleep to tackle all the after Christmas clean. Not living around family and doing everything even the traditional Christmas dinner at night I must admit took everything this pregnant body could handle! It was all worth it!

Abigail does wear clothes. She just ripped them off to try all her fairy stuff!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T10:23:00.001-08:00

Yes the above picture was taken in TEXAS. It has been snowing on an off all day!

Merry Christmas

Time Flies...

2009-12-21T09:47:00.000-08:00

We have had so much going on. Just to make this post not long here is a list:

1.Michael finished his first semester. During his final he was sick with...
2.The Stomach Flu has hit us. Abigail has not been sick but I am sure her turn is today or tomorrow.
3.We put an offer on a home. They accepted it without countering anything. That I mark up as a huge blessing. New house here we come!
4.We are so ready for Santa to make his arrival. Everything is READY!
5.Since Michael is home for two weeks we had fun making the menu for this week. He is cooking dinner a couple of days and we will both make yummy stuff for Christmas dinner.
6.New Texas Christmas traditions have started. We are happy!
7.This boy in my tummy is healthy and all the recent concerns have been put at ease with another trip to the specialist.
PS he is most active when the kids are screaming and laughing. Pretty sure he is ready to meet his siblings!

Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Time Means Busy Time

2009-12-14T15:44:00.000-08:00

We have had so many Christmas functions it seems. Fine by me because it doesn't make me too homesick. Of course we had the party at Dr. Rays which was a really fun date night. The next weekend was another packed with a ward party and another Christmas party at my friend Tiffany's house. We did a game exchange and we ended up with Rummikub. It is a pretty fun game. Good food and fun company. Of course my pictures are sparse because I didn't have my camera much.

I can't believe it is 11 days until Christmas Day. That seems so wild to me. The Holidays come and go so fast. I know I probably say that every year but really they do. I am even looking forward to what the New Year will bring. Last year this time I couldn't have guessed where we'd end up. This new year I look forward to more new adventures including an addition to our family! Exciting things ahead!!!

Hope all your Holiday agendas go off without a hitch. =)

Babysitting a friends daughter

2009-12-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

It's a BOY! Needles to say little Mike is very happy to have a brother and so are we. We can't wait to meet him!

Our Thanksgiving Holiday

2009-11-29T15:26:00.000-08:00

Sorry the above picture turned out blurry. I wanted to show our Host the Pickery Family (this was the only photo I got of them). We ate at their house and boy did we have the best spread ever. We even had 5 pies. There were only 6 adults so we had plenty!!! The kids played pin the feather on the Turkey and we watched old episodes of The Office and the girls just gabbed while the boys talked med school junk =). We had a really fun time.

Then after we left there Michael decided to see what the Black Friday scene was like early like 10:30 PM on Thanksgiving. He was 7th in line for the 32 inch flat screen that was going for super cheap. I fell asleep and next thing I know he is home at 5:30AM with a new TV, and some awesome gifts for the kids. I thought he did a great job shopping for deals. While he was in line he was watching the Walmart workers set up the "deal" isles so he knew just where to go after he got his TV voucher. He snagged some goods and was home a half an hour after they opened up for sale items. Yes he was excited, and pumped at the same time. The rest of the weekend was just Christmas focused and I must say we are about ready for the big day. I am really excited!!! Over all very good Holiday!

Tiffany and her daughter Trinity

Our yummy spread

Abigail sitting at the table before anyone because she was starving!

Ah the aftermath where you just want to unbuckle your pants and just snooze!

Fun Times

2009-11-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

We put our tree up because the weather was not fun and felt just cooped up. Michael was so excited as you can tell from the picture. I feel like we are in full holiday mode. We kicked it off with a preschool gathering with the kids acting out the first Thanksgiving as Pilgrims. They were really cute. My friend emailed me pictures because none were taken on our side. Then Sunday we got together with SAA a club for the spouses of medical students. It was full blown Thanksgiving dinner and oh so yummy! Michael was just excited to be at his dads school. The kids had such a good time and so did the adults. I love the ladies involved in it. They are such warm and kind people. I am getting excited for the Christmas party at Dr. Ray's because they are giving out cash prizes. It is nice to have so many plans ahead of us because it makes the holidays more homey since we won't be around family!

On a side note. Counting down until my ultrasound. I am just so curious seriously because I have no feeling or the slightest pull toward one sex which I did with both before so my curiosity is killing me! One more week!

PS I think it is so funny in the above picture how my kids skin color are very different. Michael my cute white boy and Abigail the tan that won't quit!

2009-11-17T09:02:00.000-08:00

Though these kids are all smiles we have had some sickness going around. No fun at all but I think we are starting to come out of it.

I can't believe it is almost Thanksgiving. The holidays keep sneaking up on me. I am very excited to get together with other med student families and just grub. I am happy I can eat for the most part. The Tuesday after Turkey day I have my ultrasound to find out the sex. I am really pumped. Time is starting to pick up in my pregnancy world which I am most happy about. So other then that we haven't had much going on. Oh I read a really good book last night. I started it last night but couldn't put it down and finished it. I cried and had dreams about it. If you have a chance pick up The Road. It made me think a lot like...what would I do or what would I be like in those circumstances?

No Pictures

2009-11-12T06:46:00.000-08:00

I suppose I am a little on the lame side since I haven't taken pictures. I have been feeling blah beside the pregnant side. Hoping to not get H1N1 but have an intense cold where you want to just crawl back into bed with a box of tissues. I think it should be a crime to get any kind of sickness when pregnant. We are already uncomfortable, we already can't sleep because of frequently urinating, and being well, pregnant. Please don't add stuffy noses so bad you can't taste and head aches so nasty you would pay to be in a dark room. Dear Cold of mine please go away!

Another note the kids were doing the usual checkups. Abigail is so comfortable around a Dr. that she tries to take their little tools and do herself. Which Dr. Speaker and her sweet self let Abigail do. The kids are healthy and growing. Michael had 5 shots. Yep 5 because they had no combo shots left. Poor kid tried to be brave but by shot three he was had and screamed as loud as he could and yelled he didn't want shots anymore. Poor guy. I don't blame him. Sonic fixed him right up though. Abigail had 3 shots and didn't even notice the first one. By the second her eyes got huge and she gasped really loud and then proceeded to scream. It was funny and sad. Abigail sympathy cried for Michael because 5 was very traumatic.

Their dad is off to the border of Texas and Mexico in the city Laredo to do some medical mission
stuff with a group from UT San Antonio. He and a small group from his school are leaving tomorrow to meet up. He seems excited to go. He loves helping and also Laredo was part of our mission. I never served in that area because not many sisters in those parts do to it being the biggest drug trafficking area between US and Mexico. I am going to miss him even if it is only for the weekend ( hopefully I feel better by tomorrow. Ha one can wish)

My week the end!

A Little Late

2009-11-11T16:39:00.001-08:00

I have always enjoyed the books of Jane Austen that have been made into movies! I have been wanting to read her stuff. I finished Pride and Prejudice, and Sense and Sensibility in four days time. FOUR DAYS. You know what that means. Yes...some things have been neglected. I really enjoy her books. If you have not had the pleasure of reading her stuff pick up one of her timeless books and if you have read them, read them again! Good stuff!

New Addiction

2009-11-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

I am so genealogy pumped right now. None of the work on my Puerto Rican side is done and I have had some cool experiences that have pushed me to get it done. I am loving doing this and I haven't even done a lot but have a few names ready.

I love finding my family. It really is super exciting. That is what I have been up to along with the usual Dr. visits, play groups, preschool etc. Life is good!

PS I am very addicted to this whole genealogy business and I LOVE IT!

I have Attempted!

2009-11-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

She has been going to the toilet by herself so I thought I'd join the cause. We shall see how well she does. She seems pretty motivated.

Below is just a classic bath shot for my mama!

Happy Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T16:47:00.000-07:00

After many costume changes the kids decided on Indians.

Good choice if you ask me!
So Michael was four different costumes this year
Hope your Halloween was full of yummy loot!

Birthday Boy

2009-10-30T12:39:00.001-07:00

Is He Really FOUR?

2009-10-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

I love this picture because this shows Michael's personality so well. He is a funny little guy! He likes to play little tricks on people, he loves to laugh, he loves to sing songs in silly voices, and he memorizes funny lines from movies and says them at the appropriate times which always makes me and his dad laugh. He is very sincere but if I were to say one word that describes him it would be grateful. He always expresses sincere thanks for things he ever receives, or for a kind act someone has done to him. I love him so much.

It is bitter sweet to watch him grow. It seems to fly by so fast and I am sure every parent would agree. I am very thankful for him in my life. He is the perfect fit in our family. He is a wonderful son and the best brother for his little Abigail.

Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday

2009-10-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my great husband. Michael in the above picture was helping me decorate while daddy was in the other room studying. We made cupcakes, and quick dinner so we could hurry up to go to Boo at the Zoo here. The Zoo had performers and candy booths and it was decorated like Halloween. We all had a really good time. Happy Birthday to a wonderful husband who loves spending time with his family. Hope your day was grand!

Happy birthday dad

Dr. Michael Montie and Dr. Abigail Montie

Michael waiting in line to play a game.

Us at Boo at the Zoo 2009

The Park

2009-10-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day because for the first time in a long while I felt good enough to go to the park. The weather was gorgeous so we couldn't resist some take out and the park. The kids had a fun and I must say I was equally excited to be out and about with them and getting some fresh air rather then laying down in bed.

After the park we headed home to paint some pumpkins. The kids enjoyed being super messy with paint. Michael kept getting mad because he couldn't get the mouth right while Abigail was content making a crazy mess! I love this time of year. Halloween is the best!

Music

2009-10-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

I know I am really late on this, but I really LOVE the New Moon soundtrack. Takes me back to my fun desert rat days back in Vegas. Going to the Tubes and seeing random bands. What is that place called across the street from UNLV. Gosh my pregnant mind has escaped me. That cafe I saw awesome indie bands way back in the day. Oh ya and Big B's. Any way the soundtrack brings me home and takes me straight to the Lowe's house. Ah my favorite twins. Good tunes.

Another good CD my hubby introduced me to was Jesse and Joy. It is Spanish but really good. If you are a non Spanish listener because you probably don't understand try to venture off. I listen to music in all different languages that are awesome!

My music tidbits =)

5

2009-10-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

Today is our 5th anniversary.
Here are some 5 randoms:

1. We served in the same mission. (don't judge we weren't disobedient)
2. We have lived in 4 states and are on school 3 ( Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Texas, BYU-I, BYU, UNT)

3. His play list is pretty different from mine in English, but our Spanish play list is the same.
4. We both love to workout and enjoy playing sports. We are Lions fans ( save the laughs) ;)
5. His favorite is Italian and mine is Mexican ( but we enjoy both)

5 years has been great. I love my husband.

Lame

2009-10-22T16:02:00.000-07:00

So today I decided I am not a cool blogger. I don't sale anything, I don't advertise anything, I am not even that good of a writer, and I am not that funny. I am not even sure why people read it other then family. I thank you for reading don't get me wrong but I wish your experiece was...well..you know somewhat entertaining.

I often don't think how I write reflects my personality. I think I am too caught up on making sure my mom knows our day to day stuff and "seeing" her grand kids without skipping a beat.

I want to write more. More for me. Maybe I realize somehow I am not that lame. It is interesting to me that people who read this have known me in different chapters of my life. Some know me in some really hard and dark days and that is all, some know me on my mission, some know me as the typical BYU college students wife. I bet if you asked each different reader they would tell you a different Cherine.

My life is just growth full of transition it seems, and I really hope someday I might be known as me not that girl that did this or that but the girl the does this now. I don't know does that make sense?

My Kids

2009-10-22T10:35:00.000-07:00

I have to take pictures of my kids when they aren't paying attention or else they turn out like the bottom one. Their "cheese" face is out of control sometimes. These are random pictures I took of the kids this morning because it has been a long while since I actually took pictures with my own camera. My camera is a piece, so I am hoping between my anniversary, Christmas, my birthday and Mothers Day I can acquire a new one!

Any way here are my fun and crazy kids. Abigail is super naughty these days, and Michael is just getting too big for his own good. I do enjoy and love them very much!

Changes

2009-10-20T17:41:00.001-07:00

I canceled my Facebook if you haven't noticed. It was long time coming. I have had it for over two years and really I just needed to detox. I wasn't getting much done so I feel good about it. I also have a new email crmontie@gmail.com

There you have it. My little changes. I love change. Change is good!

A Visitor

2009-10-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

We had a visitor come last week. YEA! Uncle Mark cam to Texas and we had a great time. The kids were in Heaven. He came with a lot of stuff from Grandma Ann. She hooked them up with awesome dress ups she made. Michael never gets dressed anymore. He is either a pirate, or an Indian, and right as I type this he is in scrubs and a white coat. He loves the dress ups!
We did a lot of stuff. We headed to the awesome Fort Worth Zoo, The Japanese Gardens, Cow Town to watch the cattle drive, and ate out at a different BBQ place every night and just compared them. That wasn't fun throwing up =( Any way we had a wonderful time and we are so happy Mark made it out to hang out with us and a big thank you for playing with the kids literally the entire time he was here!

2009-10-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

We went to the Dr. and baby is alive and well. Everything is fine for now. I feel so relieved. I had prayed and prayed and when driving to the appt. I was at peace.

2009-10-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

~ I am having some pregnancy complications. I hope resolve themselves. I go to the specialist tomorrow to see why I am hemorrhaging inside. My OB can see it on the ultrasound but isn't sure why. Also I have Placentaprevia (spelling?). If that doesn't change I will have a C-section. I am not thrilled about that. I am a little freaked because my first two pregnancies were normal. My Dr told me my thyroid is being weird too. I have never had issues with that and I was in the best shape before I got pregnant so it is really baffling to me to have all these problems. Maybe it is my age. Oh well I just hope baby hangs on. I will keep you posted!

~ On a lighter note Michael started preschool. He really needed to get out of the house. So it is nice to have little Abigail time. I think she likes hanging out just us two. I think it is fun. =)

2009-09-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

My update:

I have not been feeling very well. Between my kids, Dr visits and a trip to the ER I haven't felt like blogging much. Plus I have to admit I am found more on Facebook these days. I do remember I have contact with people only here in the blogging world so I will not neglect anymore.

First and foremost I must say I have been very blessed. Though life has been down right miserable at times but I can't forget my blessings. I am about 10 weeks pregnant! Very planned but I can never plan on what my sickness will bring. It really sucks (to be crude)! I have a healthy baby inside. I am happy about that. I am excited too! To spare you all my health drama (though my facebook has been pretty updated) I must say we are very excited!

I need to report that my husband is superb! What a guy to do all he does. Medical school has some rigor but I must say that this pregnancy has been harder. He has done very well and I know it is his dedication to us that the Lord has blessed him beyond his own capabilities. I don't mean to boast. I have just seen miracle after miracle and I am thankful.

We may seem to be on our own. No family and few friends, but we aren't and I feel my burdens being made light as my faith has increased.

I must mention my children. Michael is such a light. He is much like his dad. He really does take care of me when his dad is gone all day. He knows I am ill and he takes it upon himself to make sure my needs are being taken care of. He often goes to the fridge and will bring every drink in there to ask which one I would like. He helps to get his sister out of bed after each nap when I am usually the sickest. He rubs my head and says everything is ok. He cleans up messes. He is 3 how did I get so lucky.

Being his fun self he asked if he could have a party. So he went to the store with his dad and bought "party" stuff and we had one. Just us four and it was nice. A celebration of us and our little family. It was fun and Michael said later. "Mom that was a cool party". He deserved it!

Little Abigail isn't so little. She is a big girl who LOVES Barbie. REALLY at 18 months! She loves nursery and seems to be a friendly little girl. She waves and says hi to everyone in her little class. She loves to chat. It is fun. She has struggled the most with my sickness. She doesn't understand. She comes up to me and says "hands" and tries to pull me up. That happens most the day. She walks the line between sword fighting and combing her barbies hair. She is such a little dolly. She loves her brother but she has really bonded with her daddy. She yells HOORAY when her dad comes through the door (my thoughts exactly). She sits on his lap and chats while Michael climbs on his back.

That is where we are at. Life has taken us on another wild ride! =)

Busy

2009-08-20T10:05:00.001-07:00

No time

New place.
New calling
New third world adventures being planned
New ideas
New....................................................................TBA

White Coat

2009-07-29T20:38:00.001-07:00

Introducing " Student Dr. Michael Montie". That is what they call them when they answer questions or refer to each student. I thought it was kind of funny. So we call him student Dr. Michael Montie or Student Dr. Daddy.

Well, we made it this far! I have to say I was very proud of him during the White Coat Ceremony. I even had a tear or two because it has been such a long hall and sacrifice to get him there. I know we have a long way to go. Believe me I KNOW. I am just so grateful for all that he has accomplished thus far. First and foremost he is the best dad and husband I could ask for. He is very good at balancing out his duties and responsibilities. Secondly I feel so blessed to have Michael in my life. He has taught me so much and always gives me an extra nudge to try harder even if I am stubborn at times =)

Congrats and good luck with these next crazy med school years. We love you!

What we have been up to....

2009-07-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Like I said on my Facebook that all my days have been running together. I suppose that is what the summer does to you, but even more so when we are in a new place and there is so many new things to see and do. The above picture was taken before we headed the U North Texas BBQ for all incoming medical students and families.

It was a fun shin dig. I love it how there were only two other couples besides us that had kids. That creates instant bonds. So now I have friend and so does Michael. The next day we met up with our new friends, Jace, Tiffany, and little Trinity at the zoo. It was a lovely over cast day, and ended up pouring. It didn't stop us, because all the animals were going buck wild!

Then finally last but not least we went to a movie in the Park. We watched Finding Nemo. It was perfect weather, and all was good until everyone and their dog started lighting up. I really started to appreciate Utah's Clean Air Act. I think it was the first time my kids have ever really been exposed to cigarette smoke (oh wait my grandma in Vegas started to light up once in front of Michael when he was an infant). So we decided to leave because it was an overwhelming cloud of Cancer in the air. We finished the movie at home.

The end!

The exhibits at the Fort Worth Zoo are awesome!

I love the vegetation too.

Mike and his new friend Trinity. They had a blast together.

Pretoxic smoke cloud picture!!! Oh and of course Michael is studying. His summer is over!

Update

2009-07-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

Mike wore his dad's white coat. Michael started orientation today and received his white coat. It is exciting to see stuff like that come home. It shows there will be an end to school someday in the future.

To celebrate Michael's new start we headed to Grandy's. It isn't a fancy restaurant but it has some what sentimental meaning. My dad used to manage a Grandy's in Las Vegas before he went to nursing school. I was about Abigail's age when I used to eat there.
The food is good but the rolls are honestly the best rolls I have probably ever eaten no lie! So I posted pictures from the restaurant mostly for my mom and dad.

Little miss Abigail has a new bed. She loves sitting on it and playing. I haven't put her in it yet because having her own room has been an adjustment. I will probably start laying her on it soon . I am doing her room Raggedy Ann and Andy. She loves them and she has two different Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls that her grandma's got her last Christmas!

Texas has been fun. I miss my friends and family back in Utah, Vegas, Idaho Falls and Mike misses his buds too. Hopefully we'll make new ones sooner then later.

TEXAS

2009-07-14T11:26:00.001-07:00

We went to Cow Town. Which is part of Fort Worth. It looks like an old western town. They have a live cattle drive with the big Long Horns. It was really fun to see that. They do it twice a day. The BBQ smelled AMAZING as we were walking around! The kids really liked seeing the cattle. This is a fun area where cowboys are riding around and there are mechanical bulls and people actually riding bulls in other areas.

I am really enjoying this city. My church ward is fantastic, and we have met some really cool people. I am getting a little sad for Michael to start his week long orientation next Monday and the be full fledged into school. We have been spoiled hanging out. It has felt like a very long vacation. Which is not bad at all!

Back tracking.....GUATEMALA...Caution it is long!

2009-07-13T18:32:00.001-07:00

Mark, Jessie, Analu, Eric, Me, Michael (above) in Antigua Guate
(below) Jessie, Eric, and I at Iximche Ruins (Michael was stuck in Mexico City)

Ne asking the Solola Indians if I could take a picture of them. They spoke Kachiquel.

Me walking in the center plaza of Santiago. With a Volcano in front of me!

Beautiful Guatemala girls!

I have so many pictures, but here are a few. My trip was so surreal. I couldn't believe I was back. I missed that country so much and even more so when I got there. There is something majestic about it. It is almost a spiritual thing for me it is hard to put in words. I had very somber moments because I was reliving places that really changed my life. I feel so indebted to these people sometimes. They just love better then most people love. I was blessed to share some of my favorite people with my husband, Mark my brother-in-law, my sister Jessica, and my brother Eric.

My favorite Family Jerez Family took us in. They did anything and everything for us. They really touched my heart the way they took care of us while sometimes at their mercy. I am so grateful for the Lord putting these people in my path.

On a lighter note. Kind of funny but scary. When I was bordering the plane from Mexico City Michael was separated from me. I boarded before him and waited and waited but he never showed. Mind you know one spoke English not even the flight attendants. I speak Spanish but in my panic I just wanted an American to help me. I ran to the front of the plane yelling that my husband and brother-in-law weren't with me. I asked if they would call out to them. They said no. I asked if I could get off the plane. Again they said no. In my tears I was pleading and again the pilot this time said no. SO I took the "walk of shame" to the back of the airplane while EVERYONE was looking at me. I couldn't stop the tears streaming down my face clueless what happened. They were behind me when I was boarding and as I was walked on the plane I turned and they were gone. Let's just say it was the longest most stressful plane ride of my life.

When I arrived I was weeping when I saw my friend Willie. First thing I said was "do you know where my husband is"..My sister and brother who arrived an hour before me were like what do you mean. Right then my mom called and said. Mick called and said he was fine that immigrations was being mean to them and would not let them board meanwhile I had already boarded. Needless to say they were stuck in Mexico City for a day and half. they slept an hour at the airport until they were kicked out. They ventured off onto the subways and found some awesome ruins. They made a good situation out of a crazy one. We met up a day later and all was well. Moral of the story is don't fly AirMexicana. AMEN

P.S I was flagged to be tested for the Swine Flu when we entered Mexico City from Guatemala. I was with a Mexican Dr. for like 20 minutes. She was nice but I was kind of sick and nervous I had gotten it and I would be forced to stay. I tested negative and we made it home. Hooray!

It has been a while!

2009-07-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

My Guatemala trip was fantastic. I will post pictures later. It was an adventure with a crazy hiccup. Lets just say my husband was not allowed to board the plane in Mexico City and we were split up me having no clue where he was and what was going on. So my Guatemala trip started out with me flying solo in tears. It worked out and the story is funny now! I will go in to details later. For now I am packing up a moving truck and we are off to TEXAS. We should arrive in Fort Worth by Wednesday. Though I am not looking forward to this 20 hour drive I am very excited for life's next chapter. Adios for now!

Ciao

2009-06-24T00:05:00.001-07:00

Adios amigos y amigas me voy a GUATEMALA tomorrow!!! YEA! Pictures when I return.

Friends

2009-06-18T07:04:00.001-07:00

This is the Alaniz Family. Michael taught them on his mission. They were in Salt Lake this week so we were able to hang out with them. Ofelia kept calling Mike "papito" and he would say no it is Mike. He is one funny guy. Mike got to practice the little Spanish he know is was cute. This family has such strong faith. I enjoyed every minute being around them. They are so happy that we are moving to Texas! I hope we get to see more of amazing friends we met down there!

After we hung out for a while. We headed to the Monument; This Is The Place. Where Brigham Young came to the Salt Lake valley and said this was where they would live after their long trek! It is a great view of the valley. It is right across from the zoo so if you are in the area check it out!!! Just another part of our soak up Utah before we leave kick!

Living

2009-06-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

I feel kind of oblivious that my life will be changing forever. I don't think I fully realize where life is heading. I mean new school, new state, new ward, new friends. I am very excited but deep down in my gut I am nervous. Not a bad or a good nervous, but just nervous. I am thankful for all my little (or big) distractions. Girls camp, WT Reunion 2009, Guatemala in 7 days and then a week after that Texas. I think if I didn't have every week booked I would be way more stressed out. Kind of weird to me because I am such a planner, and having planned my Guatemala trip so close to our moving which consist of a 20 hour long drive away. I think it would have freaked me out. I really didn't realize until all the plans were final that I was moving a week after I got back into the country. I think it is a blessing in disguise that I am busy. No time to FREAK OUT. Just time to live!

Girls Camp at Mia Shalom

2009-06-15T07:53:00.000-07:00

The above picture is a having a ball in COLD weather at camp. I found out Mia Shalom where we camp is between 10,000 and 12,000 FEET. We got snowed and rained on. It was fabulous. I learned I CAN camp in freezing weather and still have a grand old time. Of course I wore a long sleeve shirt, a fleece jacket, hoodie, and my winter coat during the DAY. So imagine the nights. Hand warmers were stuffed in my feet all night!!! My girls didn't complain and we had a ball. I think because we were all very prepared. A couple times we were able to be down to two layers when the sun decided to show itself which would be like a few minutes here and there.

We had two deer visit our camp. Thankfully no bears though the grounds keeper said he saw a few before we got up there. We were all safe. We went canoeing, and did a fun little confidence/ropes course. It was beautiful up there. I think the was not only the coldest I camped, but the highest elevation. I thought I was in pretty good shape but man was the air thin up there. I was getting headaches. A few got altitude sickness one day, but all was well by the end. I had a fabulous experience and my girls are well...fabulous too!

Air Show Hill AFB

2009-06-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

What a day! On Saturday we went to Hill AFB up in Layton. There was an expected 400,000 people to come. It was so crowded it was crazy. We wanted to go for the kids and show some love to the troops! It really was a blast. It was worth of the crazy crowds to see all they had to show.

This is all part of our soak in Utah before we head out to TEXAS plan! I am so excited can you tell? Ok I am nervous to what this seven year chapter will bring. First off my husbands title will turn to Dr., we will have had all our kids, and we will move on again. I know there will be sooooooooo many things in between. I can't wait to see it all unfold! Bring on the wild ride!

Stewart Falls Hike

2009-06-04T16:56:00.001-07:00

We are trying to relish all the beautiful surroundings of Provo before we head out. We decided to hike Stewart Falls up at Sundance. It was perfect weather and absolutely gorgeous. Little Mike hiked the entire 4 miles. I was very impressed. Abigail was another story. She was on my back, and then she wanted down on the way up. She was tired so I carried her the entire 2 miles down the mountain while Mike and Daddy stayed up top for a while. My biceps were pretty sore. I was sweating like crazy, but it was a good workout. All was fine until a big snake slithered right in front of my foot which had me screaming and frightened poor Abigail. Kind of funny actually!

I sure am going to miss these mountains, and the river here. We did a lot up in the canyon, but now I wish we would have done more. Hopefully we get some camping sessions before we bail. Ha we'll see I have so much going on before we depart!

Idaho Day 3

2009-05-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

Wow what a day! We went to Funland, had a picnic at the park and now BBQ, camp fire, and tent sleeping out in the backyard. We decided to do a little "camping" in the back yard for our last night here. So we set up our tent and smores are in order. Mike is so excited. Thankfully the weather is blissful. I keep commenting on every post about the weather but really it is perfect and everything is so lush and green because it rained so much over the Spring!

We are sad it is our last night. We have had such a ball. Aside from our fun outings I got to sew a lot and learned to make some things with my amazing creative mother -in -law. So needless to say I have many projects in the works and Christmas on my mind.....I know we just started summer but hey I need all the time I can get to sew and actually finish my projects!!!! By the way my mother-in-law has a room dedicated to fabric and lets just say she lets me take all the loot I want!!!!! =)

Idaho Falls Day 2

2009-05-29T18:47:00.000-07:00

Silly Abigail climbing the fence to see the Zebras. No Michael put her up there for a picture. Kind of funny though. We went to the zoo here. It is a really nice zoo. Smaller but it has some of the most important animals such as lions and tigers. We always go there because we have a zoo pass from back home which allows you to get into most zoo in the United States free. Again the weather was lovely. No complaints here. We have had such a wonderful time!

Idaho Falls Day 1

2009-05-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

Since we had a few days "off" (not really I should be packing). Me and the kids decided to head to Idaho Falls Tuesday night. Michael later joined us Wednesday night. During the day on Wednesday we did a lot of stuff and the kids had a blast.

We headed to Reed's Dairy just down the street from Grandma and Grandpa Montie. Michael actually worked there after high school. They have the BEST milk, cheese, and ice cream. Reed's always brings back good memories. So we took the kids there first and they saw all the cows, and fed a horse and some sheep. We sat on the lawn and ate ice cream. The weather was beautiful. I was amazed how warm it was for this time of year.

Then we headed to the Snake River to feed some geese. Abigail made me nervous because she would just run right up to them and try to touch and they were the size of her. When she was handed bread she would eat it and chase the geese. She was so funny. Mike was having a ball to. The river down by the green belt is so pretty.

That was day one. I will post more later!!!

Memorial Weekend

2009-05-25T17:54:00.001-07:00

Sunday I was making breakfast and this is how I found Mike and Abigail watching cartoons. They are so good to each other and Mike always tells me that Abigail is his best friend. I am thankful that they play so well and really are each others best friend! (don't mind my laundry on the chair in the back round)
Monday we had a BBQ with a few friends and their families. I was nervous if we would have good weather since it had been raining most the weekend. I got up to jog around 6:30 and the weather was PERFECT. We enjoyed yummy food, water play, an intense game of croquet (well the guys), great weather, and fabulous company!

This weekend made me realize what great friends I have made here. They really are the best. They take care of my kids, are always around to lend a hand, and just really inspiring people. I hope where ever we move we can make friends like that. If they are half of what I have found here I would be satisfied!

Thanks for a great weekend. Happy Memorial Day to everyone!

This Weekend Thus Far

2009-05-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

I ran my 5k and did 3 minutes faster then I thought. I was pretty much sprinting most the 3 miles and almost puked at the end. All was well and I am pleased!

We watched Night at the Museum with the kids. Michael loved it and I had to leave for about 40 minutes because Abigail was not having it for a while. She lasted and 1 hr 20 min. Not bad for a 15 month old.

The weather was lovely. Overcast and little sprinkles, but it smelled amazing!

Had good family time.

More Memorial Weekend left!

The Lates

2009-05-20T14:19:00.000-07:00

Sunday night we had dinner at my mission presidents house. The Lewis' had a little going away party with a few missionaries and their families. It was really nice to see them and other fellow missionaries. I am going to miss them dearly. I have had the opportunity to see them at least a couple times a year the past 5 years. I feel spoiled having been able to spend so much time with them. They have blessed my life greatly!
Michael is pretty obsessed with baseball these days and I must admit he can bomb the ball like a champ! Abigail is not slow to get in on that action. They even have their specific hats they wear. since it has been warm we have been living out side. I love playing with these two. They are so fun and such joy!

The Game

2009-05-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

Kansas beat Salt Lake. It was such a fun game. Michael had a blast. Thank you to Herc Gomez who got us tickets. It was fun to watch that kid play. I have known Herc for about 15 years maybe more. I am proud of that kid! Thank you to Eric and Jessie for coming up and hooking us up!

If you ever have the chance go to one of the MLS soccer games. They are so much fun. All my locals go out and support Real Salt Lake. I think we are going to try and go to the June 6 game. David Archuleta is performing. Should be fun!

Real SL Game

2009-05-16T16:31:00.001-07:00

Uncle Eric and Aunt Jessie came into town for the Real Salt Lake Game.
Just Michael and I are going with them because Daddy Michael had to work.
We are going to support Herc Gomez. He plays for Kansas.
We'll see who wins.
And we are off!

Journal Entry Blog Style

2009-05-06T07:08:00.000-07:00

We have had sick kids for over a week. I suppose that is why I have lack of desire to blog. Oh and we are packing and trying to decide what to do as far as school. You see Michael has gotten in to school in Fort Worth for the medical school part and the PhD which would make our Texas adventure at least 7 years. He has been waited listed at all the rest. He is top of the list at one and they said he would most likely get in. We are only really waiting for San Antonio. Everything about it is ideal!

So my problem is this. We could move down to Fort Worth buy a home and then get called a week later that he got into San Antonio. It is a little stressful to still wait but yet go through the motions of moving. I try not to allow my bias for Texas get in the way of really knowing where we should be. What program Michael belongs in, where my family will fit the best. We have a few weeks to figure all of this out and then move and make a new life.

I'll admit that this has been the hardest part of his whole schooling process. I have struggled a bit and have had sleepless nights. Thankfully the other day I took comfort in reading in Matthew 6. "Therefore take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these".

And then it goes on to say Seek ye first the Kingdom of God. I suppose that scripture struck a chord and brought me some comfort. Father in Heaven knows whats up. I just need to have faith in that and know that he will take care of us. When it talks about seeking first the Kingdom of God I think of my husband.

If anyone deserves all the blessings it is Michael. He is such a powerful example to me. I have never met anyone who drops everything pretty much when every occasion arises to help another person. One cute example of this is.

When we were dating he was attending BYU and I was teaching seminary in Vegas. So we were doing the whole long distance thing. Well one day he was coming down to see me and it took him a couple hours longer to get to Vegas. He didn't have a cell phone at the time and I was a little worried. When he finally showed up he said he pulled over three times to help random people with their various car trouble. That became a pattern of his very life.

Now I don't believe he lacks the faith in this who schooling process. He is very content with Lord and I believe has a tender relationship with him, but I on the other hand need to step it up a bit. I need to be like Michael, and make this experience an uplifting and positive one. I think I need to be more humble too. La palabra es Fe. Fe es mi respuesta. Fe como mi esposo y mas importante fe en Dios y en su Hijo =)

2009-04-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more pictures from the weekend. I am sad I didn't get any with my camera of Eric, Jess and the boys. I just wanted to thank everyone for coming and playing with us. Those Real fans head back up in a few weeks for the game against Kansas! Any way...on a crazy note...I am suppose to fly to Mexico City in 7 weeks. Swine Flu or bust baby!!!!

Family + Friends = FUN

2009-04-24T23:00:00.001-07:00

Hogle Zoo with Brian, Amber, Tanner, Carson, and Crew

Abi-Girl... and B and Amber below

Me and Mehalissa (remember that name girl?) hanging out

Ahh good times. I love being surrounded by comedy central Eric and B. Bestie Melissa and her fam, all the cousins, nephews, Amber, Jess, Mom, Dad, Leo, and Ann. So much fun. I just wish it didn't rain. Blah oh well. Thanks y'all for coming up and playing!

He Did It

2009-04-24T22:42:00.000-07:00

(Michael walking across the stage ,and "Mike" walked to the bottom to greet him after he got his diploma and to take a quick picture before he sat back down. "Mike" was so happy and you could tell he thought it was pretty neat!)

He did it!!! Michael graduated today! It was a LONG ceremony, but it was a great feeling watching him walk across that stage! I am so proud of him. He has worked so incredibly hard to get at this point. He accomplished graduating with a great GPA in one of the most hardest majors at BYU while having a daunting calling at church, working, being a husband and most importantly being a Dad. My heart goes out to all those who are parents doing the schooling thing. Honestly probably the most difficult at times. I can say though, first hand that I can see the hand of the Lord in it all. Michael lived true to his statement, "I am a father before a student" , and it blessed him greatly! I am so thankful to be married to someone who puts family above it all. Thank you Michael James =) for giving your all! Love you!

Blast

2009-04-24T06:34:00.000-07:00

I am having a good time with my family so far. Today is when most everyone arrives, and it is Michael's graduation!!! YEA!

OUTSIDE

2009-04-16T00:52:00.000-07:00

It is almost 2 AM and I looked outside. Probably the worst snow of the year. It is almost May...OUCH, low blow Mother Nature, and me and the Ground Hog are on the outs!

Good Health

2009-04-14T08:35:00.000-07:00

So Michael and I have been working out for a few months now, and we are feeling good. I am training a little for whatever races catch my eye whether it be a 10K or a half marathon or a triathlon I am in. Since we will be moving I can't really do any here because the races that I'd like to do are this Fall. So we'll see. For now...

I am running about 4 miles and strength training. Michael is basically an expert when it comes to weightlifting so I have a good coach. He pushes me which I really like.

Michael has hit the gym full force. He'll run FOREVER and then lift. He is amazing seriously. He used to body build before his mission and now he is getting back in to the swing of things. He just wants a healthy balance of exercise.

Our goal is when he starts medical school and life gets crazy out of control busy for the next um....probably 8 years we'll will keep up the healthy aspects of life. For our mental health and to be good healthy examples for our kids!!!! We are officially a no treat family. Nobody really minds but Michael...he'll get over it!

Easter 2009

2009-04-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

We did a little Eater egg hunt on Saturday with some friends of ours! It was raining pretty much all day but there was a break for about two hours so we did our hunt then and let the kids play until is started pouring again.
Easter Sunday was a good one at church full of awesome speakers talking about The Savior. It was such a spiritual environment. I love Easter Sunday so much. I think it is one of my favorite holidays. The kids loved the baskets and their new church get ups but we usually have a yummy dinner and watch Finding Faith in Christ. We try to focus it on Jesus rather then just the commercial stuff. This Holiday is getting even more enjoyable as the kids are getting older and especially Michael because he understands a lot!

I hope you all have a wonderful Easter!

Introducing....

2009-04-10T19:22:00.000-07:00

MIKE

I am not sure why but one day when we were at the grocery store I called Michael by his name and he corrected me and said...and I quote, " it's Mike Mommy".
No joke ever since he has told EVERYONE he talks to that his name is Mike and if you call him Michael he'll correct you. Seriously this kid has a mind of his own. He is so funny! So Mike it is...I guess ;)

Mission Reunion 2009

2009-04-04T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some random photos from my mission reunion. The top is with my family and Marisa's family. I served with her down in the lovely South Texas border. I haven't seen her and her family in a few months so it was nice to see them. It was a small reunion but I got to see people I served with that I love. Of course I miss my Amanda and Coin-dawg. Maybe next time. Or maybe y'all just need to fly out =)
Michael and I chatted it up with Jean Paul De Jesus and his wife. He is from Ponce Puerto Rico. That is where my family is from. They are a very nice couple.

Us with President Lewis.

Top little Michael, me, Marisa, and Sophia

The husbands blocking the stairs.

The Motherland

2009-03-31T16:04:00.000-07:00

We headed to Vegas just me and the kids for Tanner and Trace's baptism and also for a little warm weather. We were there 5 days and we had a blast hanging out with family. It was nice to get away but man we came home to some nasty cold winter weather. i miss the warmth so bad!

The above picture is Michael and some of his cousins at The Mint 400 tech check downtown. Amber's boss has a team and invited her down to check out the off road vehicles. They were pretty sweet. It is nuts the kinds of crowds these races bring. I can't believe how drunk some people were at 11 in the morning. It was fun and Michael was digging it! Thanks Amber!

Below are pictures from the baptism. It was my nephew Tanner's baptism and his cousin (on his other side) Trace's who happens to be one of my bestie friends Melissa's son. Get all of that. Ya so it was extra special because it was at the same time. I had fun hanging with my family and the Duke's that day. Good to catch up =). Poor Abigail was so out numbered by all the boys. The only other girl was Melissa's niece who is like 10 or 11 (maybe older I am not sure). Other then that there were boys everywhere.

I loved running into old homies from high school at church function involving our kids...weird! The kicker for me was running into the Darringtons. I knew Dustin from high school and i used to kick his butt in swimming as he so proudly told his girls. hahaha but he has me at water polo. Good times guys! Hope to see ya'll around when I come back. Who knows when that will be. sadly I was thinking I won't make it down before we move which means next summer =(...oh well life goes on.

Miss Priss my Abigail above

Some of the cuz's (what is Alex doing?)

Abigail, me and Melissa Dukie E.

Tanner and my bro Brian.